Having a summer baby opens up opportunities for so many fun experiences! However, during the present concerns surrounding COVID19, finding safe and healthy experiences to take part in with baby may look just a little different these days. Whether you are searching for fun things to do outdoors or indoors this season, here is a list of ideas to help spark some safe and healthy family fun amidst the pandemic!
The beauty of having a newborn during the summertime are the endless ways to explore the outdoors, weather permitting. Keeping baby cool and comfortable is key in the summer heat, so before you head out, check out some tips here on how to do just that! Also, be sure sun to protect baby from direct sun by following a few simple steps to ensure they stay protected from the sun's strong rays.
Here are some ideas for some outdoor fun!
- Stroll The Day Away: Load baby up in the stroller with a detachable stroller fan and head out to explore the neighborhood. Fresh air can do wonders in those early, sleepless weeks. Not only is that fresh air good for baby, but it is a great refresher for parents, too!
- Go For a Nature Hike: Know of a peaceful walking path or hiking trail!? This option presents the perfect opportunity to wear baby in your favorite wearable carrier and head on foot to get a little exercise and take in the views!
- Snuggle in the Shade: Have a shady spot outside in your yard or on your front porch?! Prop yourself up in a porch swing, comfy lawn chair or hammock and use that space to snuggle your new little one. Talk to them about the birds chirping, insects buzzing, flowers growing, anything you happen to see! Newborns find comfort in being spoken or sung to, so tune into your surroundings and enjoy a little quiet time with them from the comfort of your very own yard.
If the heat of the summer gets too uncomfortable, try these indoor options below!
- Play Some Music: Turn on your favorite music playlist or some sweet little lullabies. Hold baby up to the mirror while you sway and move to the music. Movement helps to soothe babies in so many ways, so turning on some tunes and moving around can help calm a fussy baby. By doing so in a mirror, you can hold them up to study their own faces and after a few months, they may even start to smile at their own reflections while you move to the beat!
- Make The Most of Tummy Time: Lay baby down on a play mat or blanket and let them stretch out a bit! It is no secret that a lot of babies love to be held, but giving them a chance to stretch on out is good for them as well! You can introduce them to a few different baby toys and even prop up a handheld mirror for them to gaze at. Rotate them from their tummy to their back and once they are ready, they will roll themselves back and forth on their ow
- Engage with Expressions: Pick a comfortable seat, perhaps in a special rocking chair or in a seat next to a big window. Hold baby in your lap with their face facing yours. Practice making different expressions...opening and closing your eyes, sticking out your tongue, smiling. Let them study your facial responses and after awhile, they may even try to imitate you!
Most of all, enjoy this special time. Having a newborn at home is such a gift and finding new ways to bond with them is always so rewarding. Here is to wishing you a safe and healthy summer with your sweet little bundle!